President George Abela will this summer set off on a mission to bring a smile to thousands of people in the second most populous city of Peru.
“This was one of my primary wishes as President. Malta brims with volunteers. Solidarity with others, especially those in need, has become part of our identity,” he said.
“However, we must keep in mind that solidarity has no front-iers and it doesn’t stop at Malta’s borders,” he said.
Dr Abela is recruiting about 60 volunteers to join him between July 11 and 26 on a missionary trip to Arequipa, Peru.
This is one of the Malta Community Chest Fund’s projects. Sponsored by Rocs, volunteers will be expected to pay €1,500 to cover the flights, accommodation, food and transport. Those aged between 18 and 30 and who do not work full-time will pay a subsidised rate of €750.
The President pointed out that all those on the team – including himself – would be paying for the trip, which, he added, was not some vacation.
“We are going there to work and not on holiday. We will be building a better future for the people in Arequipa and for the volunteers themselves,” he said.
Dr Abela commended the work “Maltese ambassadors” and volunteers have been carrying out in Peru for more than 40 years.
At the moment, there are 10 members of the Missionary Society of St Paul spread across seven parishes.
MSSP regional superior Fr Louis Mallia said that this “marvellous experience” would change the volunteers’ lives. Those who apply will be evaluated on criteria based on the work that the team plans to carry out in Arequipa.
This includes building adequate bathrooms and finishing child centres.
Dr Abela appealed for donations including cement, bathroom tiles, sinks, showers, rubber matting, TV monitors, toys, stationery, educational material, books in Spanish, outdoor equipment, used prescription glasses and medicine.
He also urged construction workers, handymen, carers, teachers and health professionals to join the team.
Immunisation vaccination will be provided free to all volunteers.
Those interested in donating some items can call on 2122 6226. Prospective participants can log on http://president.gov.mt or http:// mccf.org.mt to download an application form.
Donations and application forms have to be submitted by April 30 at noon.